Pippali - Long Pepper
Piper longum

Also known as ‘long pepper’, pippali is an aromatic small climber that thrives in the shade and humidity of the forests of India.

The catkin-like fruits are used in Ayurvedic living a bit like black pepper, to warm and invigorate.

With each low-growing plant producing just a few fruits at a time they are a real labour of love to collect. But it's worth it as they fetch a high price and deliver a pungency so hot that they would warm the coldest of colds.

It is an essential ingredient in the famous Ayurvedic formula, Trikatu, the Three Spices mixture, blended with ginger and black pepper.